South Africa: Trials & Appeals & Compensation

A Johannesburg High Court recently dismissed a plaintiff's insurance claim after more than thirteen years of inordinate delay and failure to prosecute.

Accusations of racism in the workplace are among the most sensitive and volatile issues employers and employees can face. In South Africa, where history, power and inequality remain deeply intertwined with working life, such allegations carry real emotional and legal weight.

Practitioners appearing in full court appeals have long worked on the assumption that Rule 49(13) of the Uniform Rules applies whenever an appeal is directed to the full court of a division of the High Court - regardless of who granted leave. That assumption has now been tested and found wanting. In Koopman v Minister of Police (963/2022) [2026] ZASCA 45 (7 April 2026), the Supreme Court of Appeal held that Rule 49(13) of the Uniform Rules does not apply where it is the SCA, rather than a High Court judge, that grants leave to appeal to the full court.

An employee drinks an energy drink before work. A breathalyser test returns a positive alcohol reading. The employer applies its zero-tolerance policy and dismisses. Months later, the employee is reinstated with back pay.

In the realm of business rescue, where financially distressed companies are given an opportunity for rehabilitation, a critical question arises: when does the conduct of a business rescue practitioner cross the threshold...

In an age where professional accountability is paramount to public protection, a pressing question emerges: can a registered professional escape disciplinary proceedings simply by cancelling their registration?

The Western Cape High Court recently delivered a judgment in a default judgment application that stems from a defamation matter instituted by Rosemary Ryan ("Ms Ryan") against the Hyatt Regency Cape Town hotel...

Section 17(2)(f) of the South African Superior Courts Act, 2013 ("the Act") deals with reconsiderations and variations of the Supreme Court of Appeal ("SCA").

In FirstRand Bank Limited ("FNB") v Lourina Wilson NO and Another, the South African Supreme Court of Appeal ("SCA") clarified the requirements for when a valid offer of compromise is made and accepted.